The work defines the right to life as the ontological foundation of human existence, which acts as a fundamental constitutional value. It is considered not only as a basic subjective right but as a universal principle that forms the axiological framework of the legal system and ensures the possibility of realizing all other rights and freedoms. The relevance of the study is determined by the need for the theoretical substantiation and systematization of a comprehensive, multi-level system of legal, institutional, and procedural guarantees of the right to life within the national legal framework of Ukraine, as the provision of the right to life is an imperative moral, social, and political obligation of the state, requiring the highest level of guarantees and special attention. The right to life is analyzed from the perspective of contemporary bioethics. The constitutional limits of state intervention in the realization of the right to life are outlined. The foundations of the national regulatory framework for the right to life are highlighted. Its fragmentation is analyzed, and the need for the codification of norms regulating various aspects of the realization of this right is proven. The specificity of the international legal regulation of the right to life and the implementation of international standards into domestic law are investigated. The legal correlation between the quality of life and the right to life is analyzed. It is proven that a dignified quality of life (provision of basic resources, social protection, access to medical services) is an integral component of the extended understanding of the right to life. The mechanisms for guaranteeing and providing the right to life are developed and characterized. A theoretical construct of a four-level system of guarantees (normative-legal, institutional, activity-based, and educational levels) is formed, which ensures the comprehensive integration of the powers of state bodies and creates conditions for the effective protection of life. The state’s guarantee of the right to life in the work is presented as a complex, multi-level system that operates based on a two-vector strategy: from the formal consolidation of norms (normative-legal level) and the creation of specialized institutions (institutional level) to active, procedurally formalized activities (activity-based level), which include medical, social, and law enforcement measures. It is generalized that the effectiveness of the system for guaranteeing the right to life is possible only through the synthesis of all levels, supported by strategic planning, transparency of actions, and proper control by independent institutions. Medical assistance is identified as a key guarantee of the right to life. It is substantiated that timely, high-quality, and safe medical assistance, especially in emergency situations, armed conflicts, and places of detention, is a critically necessary condition for preserving life and realizing the positive obligations of the state. The state is obliged not only to formally proclaim the right to life but also to ensure its real effectiveness through the development of healthcare infrastructure, the creation of an effective system of medical insurance, and the clear regulation of patient rights. It is emphasized that an important aspect is the alignment of national legislation with international standards, which guarantees the conformity of domestic life protection mechanisms with generally recognized human rights principles. The regulation of patient rights involves enshrining in legislation clear guarantees regarding informed consent, confidentiality, the right to choose a doctor and medical facility, as well as mechanisms for protection against inappropriate medical intervention. Only under the condition of comprehensive fulfillment of these tasks does the right to life acquire real substance, transforming from a formal declaration into an effective constitutional imperative that ensures the security, dignity, and social protection of every person.
The features of guaranteeing the right to life in conditions of armed conflict are outlined. It is proven that the state has special obligations regarding the protection of the civilian population, and the implementation of international humanitarian law norms acts as the highest form of life protection in conditions of external aggression and military operations. The work not only systematizes the theoretical and legal foundations of the right to life but also proposes a comprehensive model for its guarantee by the state, combining national and international standards, ethical and legal approaches, as well as practical mechanisms for implementation.
